(Columbus) ---Ohio Department of
Rehabilitation and Correction (DRC) employees across the state have raised $14,000 in an
effort to assist those who were adversely affected by recent floods. Director Reginald A.
Wilkinson declared the week of July 5, through 11,1998, "DRC FLOOD RELIEFWEEK"
during which employees could "dress down" for a donation of $10 toward flood
relief. Donations were collected from all 30 prisons, the eight regional parole offices
and the central office divisions. Monies are still being counted with an estimated final
tally that could reach $17,000.

"Our employees are known for their
generosity toward people in need," said Wilkinson. "This state-wide effort was a
way we could help our own staff as well as communities in their time of need."

In addition to monies raised, the
department was involved in several aspects of flood assistance. Inmate crews removed
debris from roadways and creeks and continued throughout the week to assist other agencies
in cleaning up affected areas. Inmate community service work crews will be going out to
repair, restore and rebuild parks and playgrounds that were ravaged by the floods.

For further information please contact the
DRC Public Information Office at (614) 752-1150.